Bass Player's Journey: From Beginners to Sight Reading Masters

Just started playing bass? Congrats! You've already learned a few songs from the greats like Paranoid, Electric Funeral, Killing in the Name, and For Whom the Bell Tolls. But where do you go from here? This guide will help you refine your skills and progress towards becoming a full-fledged sight-reading bassist in the jazz world.

Understanding the Importance of Music Theory

Although playing bass by ear is a great way to start, it’s essential to learn how to read music. In jazz, you’ll need to read charts with chord changes and detailed parts. Mistakes can be costly, even to the point of being fired. So, the true question is: how do you learn to read real music?

The key to mastering this is to use resources like Rubank educational materials, even though they are often used for other instruments. Use a metronome and take bass lessons. Learning traditional music notation is crucial, especially if you want to read bass clef compositions.

Becoming a True Bass Player

Create a plan to become a sight-reading gigging session musician. Session musicians need to step into a gig and execute the show flawlessly without rehearsal. This requires discipline, practice, and the ability to sight-read effectively.

Step 1: Start Learning Real Music

Focus on learning to read music from the bass clef rather than just tablature. Tablature is a guitar-derived system that can be helpful but lacks the full scope of bass music. Using a Rubank book or another bass method book is a great start.

Step 2: Improve Your Technique

Practice sight-reading exercises like the “spider exercise,” which can be found on YouTube. Start slowly, even if it’s harder than playing fast. Mastering your scales, proper muting, and tone control are essential. Also, learn how to use both your fingers and a pick for plucking. These skills will lay the groundwork for excellent performance.

Additional Tips for Bass Players

To become a well-rounded bassist, consider the following tips:

Start learning to sing while playing. This can improve your overall musicianship and help you understand the melody better. Study and incorporate “feel”. Your approach to playing a note can significantly affect the feel of a song. For example, Larry Graham’s style on “Everyday People” demonstrates the impact of this approach. Practice playing classics from the 1970s, like “Water Song” by Hot Tuna. This can provide a richer musical experience and broader technical proficiency. Avoid getting carried away with gear acquisition syndrome (GAS). Focus on your skills and music, not just your equipment. Bass is typically used for timekeeping, but don’t limit yourself to simply following the kick drum. Experiment and explore other aspects of bass playing.

Conclusion

You’ve already made significant progress by learning a few songs, but remember, “you’re not a Jedi yet” (Yoda). Keep pushing yourself, learn new skills, and continue to grow as a musician. Best of luck on your journey to becoming a proficient and versatile bass player!